Apple Seed Germination

Guidelines for Malus Seed Germination

1. Soak individual seed lots in separate, labeled containers, for 24 hours in regular tap water. 

2. Distribute seeds evenly on saturated, but not dripping, blotter paper or paper towels. Place germination containers in the dark at 1 to 4℃ (34 to 39℉) for a minimum of 60 days.  

3. Check on seeds once a week and rewet blotter paper as needed. As needed, surface disinfect each seed lot in 10% chlorine bleach solution for two minutes, and rinse with tap water. Change blotter paper if severely contaminated.

4. After 60-120 days, the radicle (embryonic root) begins to emerge. Discontinue surface disinfectants so as not to burn the root-tip. As you see a few of the seeds in each seed lot showing radicles, place seeds at room temperature to promote full germination. If some of the seeds are not germinating but appear viable, resume chilling and weekly monitoring. 

5. Fill 4-inch pots with gently packed potting soil, leaving adequate headspace for watering; too much soil leads to overwatering, and too little soil will dry quickly. Prewet soil before planting. When radicles have emerged, carefully plant about 3-4 cm below soil line and cover. Take extra care to not damage the young root tip; planting is easiest within the first few millimeters of radicle growth. Gently water to settle soil around seed.